Antique Vintage Deco Retro 18k Gold Mediterranean Red Coral Pearl Ring Sz 4.75

Description

We have similar
Retro
and
Coral items, which would pair nicely with this piece, up for auction this week. To view in a separate listing, please visit our store and search "Retro"
and
"Coral"
under our auction items.
Item Description by: Dayna M.
The Piece
Auction Estimate:
,000 - ,000
Age Circa:
Retro c. 1940 - 1950
Markings:
"RO" on the inside of the band of the ring, tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin:
Unknown
Brand:
Unknown
Gram Weight:
6.6 grams
Metal Type:
18k yellow gold
Item Weight Value:
0.00 (value all-inclusive weight)
Material:
--
Main Stone:
Mediterranean Coral
Main Stone Measurements/Color:
Length:
7.99 mm
Width:
4.99 mm
Depth:
1.64 mm
Color:
opaque bright red hue
Accent Stone:
Akoya pearl
Accent Stone Measurements/Color:
Diameter:
2.97 mm
Color:
lustrous cream hue
Stone Treatment:
The stone(s) appear to be untreated, but we are not certified gemologists. Stone(s) have been tested and guaranteed using a professional Presidium Duo refractive, heat, and hardness tester.
Stone Cuts:
Carved and polished teardrop cabochon coral, naturally rounded and polished pearl
Ring Size:
4.75
Sizable by your local jeweler:
Yes
Item Measurements:
Top of ring:
0.84" long, 0.81" wide
When worn:
The ring rises 0.48" off the finger
Notable Features:
This ring was handmade during the Retro period in the Art Deco era. Composed of 18k yellow gold, the ring features beautiful Mediterranean coral stones and an Akoya pearl. The use of such a large, valuable stone in this ring is an excellent example of the Hollywood Regency style, which rose to popularity during the Retro period. Reflecting their large, memorable personalities, Hollywood celebrities and socialites during this time would adorn themselves with glamorous jewelry, usually featuring huge, eye-catching stones. This ring was made in the style of Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Tiffany designs that were influencing the Hollywood Regency style, making the viewer think of the likes of Ava Gardner and Katharine Hepburn.
The ring consists of six Mediterranean coral stones that would have been hand-harvested off the coast of Italy before being imported to be made into jewelry, suggesting this ring belonged to a wealthy socialite who could afford the costs associated with importing the stone. Bright red in hue, the cabochon teardrop cut stones display a mottling of lighter red shades throughout as the light reflects off the smooth opaque finish. The coral rests securely within prong yellow gold settings. The vibrant hue of the yellow gold is a beautiful contrast to the red hues of the coral.
The coral stones each make up a floral motif design with an Akoya pearl in the center. The pearl would have been hand-harvested off the coast of Japan before being imported to be made into jewelry. The pearl is cream in hue and displays a stunning luster as light reflects off the stone from different angles. To keep the stone secure, it rests in a yellow gold prong setting—the vibrancy of the gold a lovely contrast to the soft shades of the saltwater Akoya pearls.
The ring's setting raises the stones more than one-third of an inch off the finger, with a yellow gold setting. Around the coral stones are rope designs shaped into a petal-like motif, each having a unique, eye-catching geometric style. The 18k yellow gold band has swirl cutouts and has been smoothed and polished for comfortable wear. A classic example of Hollywood Regency jewelry from the Retro period, this ring would make a valuable addition to any antique jewelry collection. Don't miss your chance to preserve this piece of cultural history
.
Damage:
Age appropriate wear.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
Retro jewelry refers to pieces created in the 1940s and 1950s. This was a period during which jewelry designers were largely influenced by the changes stemming from World War II. These designs reflect an infusion of futuristic vision with elements inspired by preceding periods, encompassing a variety of gemstones, shapes, and materials. Materials used commonly in Retro jewelry are gold, gold alloys, and silver as the wartime put a restriction on the use of platinum. Designs can be masculine, geometric and modern, or softer, more feminine and floral.
The Hollywood Regency style came into fashion during the 1930s, ushered along by the Golden Age of Hollywood. This style was heralded by bright, contrasting colors and modernization of the opulence of Baroque styles, featuring a deliberately frivolous extravagance that screamed glitz and glamour. “Big girls need big diamonds” was taken to heart, and the gorgeous Hollywood stars decked themselves appropriately, with blindingly glittering jewels to showcase their lives of luxury.
Red coral has played an important part in Chinese art, culture, and style throughout history and into the 21st century. Red coral has been used as an ornamental stone or material in Chinese jewelry, carvings, and sculptures because of its vibrant variety of red hues. In ancient times, red coral was delivered to China by the Silk Roads from Italy, by sea from the Persian Gulf, and from the Mediterranean Sea via the Indian Ocean. The amount of natural red color has dramatically decreased in recent years due to environmental factors and coral harvesting. The quantity of manufactured coral on the market has increased as the popularity of Chinese red coral continues.
Akoya saltwater pearls are cultured from the Akoya oyster and can be found primarily in Japan and China. They are known for their beautiful round shape and exquisite luster that sets them apart from many other types of pearls. They are usually white or cream in color but can have rose or silver undertones. During the Art Deco era, Akoya pearls were rare, expensive to own, and reserved for the richest of the rich.
Domestic US
: All items ship within one business day of receiving payment. Buyers will have 3 base shipping options to choose from, depending on the needed speed of delivery. Pricing on single and multi-purchase transactions can be seen below:
Auction Items:
Base shipping + .00 per additional gold item & BIN items combine for free
BIN Items:
FREE
Base Shipping:
USPS
First Class
: .00 fully insured, estimated 3-5 business days
USPS
Priority Mail
: .00 fully insured, estimated 2-3 business days
USPS
Priority Express
: .00 fully insured, overnight delivery
International
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